New Hampshire vs Maine Solar Incentives: Which State Gets the Better Deal?
Side-by-side comparison of New Hampshire and Maine solar incentive programs in 2026: state tax credits, net metering rules, exemptions, payback period, and projected 25-year savings.
| Metric | NH · New Hampshire | ME · Maine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Monthly Bill | $170 | $145 |
| Peak Sun Hours / Day | 4.3 ◆ | 4.2 |
| Avg $/Watt Installed | $3.05 | $3.05 |
| State Tax Credit | None | None |
| Net Metering | modified | modified |
| SREC Market | No | No |
| Property Tax Exempt | Yes | Yes |
| Sales Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Avg Payback (yrs) | 7.7 ◆ | 8.2 |
| Avg 25-Year Savings | $42,300 ◆ | $38,100 |
State Tax Credit Comparison
New Hampshire offers no state income tax credit. Maine offers no state income tax credit.
Net Metering Policies
New Hampshire: modified rate net metering active. Maine: modified rate net metering active.
Net metering is often the most economically significant solar policy because it determines how excess production is valued. Retail-rate states (where you receive full retail price for exported energy) have substantially better solar economics than avoided-cost or no-net-metering states.
Average 25-Year Savings
New Hampshire: $42,300 over 25 years (avg payback 7.7 yrs). Maine: $38,100 over 25 years (avg payback 8.2 yrs).
Verdict: Which State Wins on Solar?
New Hampshire edges out Maine on lifetime savings primarily due to higher solar irradiance.
Note: state averages mask significant within-state variation. Your specific utility, roof orientation, and household electricity profile drive your actual numbers — use the calculator to model your home directly.